How to Make Perfect Bacon in Oven
Are you tired of the greasy, crispy bacon that you get from the store? Do you want to enjoy perfectly cooked bacon without the mess of frying? Look no further! Cooking bacon in the oven is a simple and convenient method that produces delicious results every time. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make perfect bacon in the oven.
Ingredients
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of bacon (any type, such as applewood smoked or hickory smoked)
– A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack
– Optional: aluminum foil
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the bacon cooks evenly.
2. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven. If you are using a wire rack, place it on the baking sheet for added support.
3. Optional: Line the bottom of the baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any excess grease and make cleanup easier.
Cooking the Bacon
1. Lay the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring that they are not overlapping. Overlapping bacon can lead to uneven cooking.
2. Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. The bacon will be golden brown and crispy when it’s done.
3. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the bacon strips to ensure even cooking on both sides.
4. Optional: If you prefer a crispier texture, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Removing and Serving
1. Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest on the baking sheet for a minute or two. This will allow the juices to settle and the bacon to become extra crispy.
2. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
3. Enjoy your perfectly cooked bacon on its own, or use it as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover bacon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week. To reheat, simply place the slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat them for 10-15 seconds or until warm.
Now that you know how to make perfect bacon in the oven, you can enjoy this delicious breakfast staple any time of the day. Happy cooking!
